ES2334209T3 - CONTAINER FOR TONER SUPPLY AND TONER SUPPLY SYSTEM. - Google Patents

Abstract

A toner supply container (1) detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus (100) comprises a container main body (1A) having an inner space adapted to contain toner and an opening (1a) adapted to permit discharge of the toner out of said container (1), a sealing member (2) having a sealing portion (2b) adapted to seal said opening (1a) and a coupling engagement portion (2c) adapted to engage with a cylindrical portion (20) provided in the image forming apparatus (100). The coupling engagement portion (2c) includes a locking portion (3) adapted to be locked with the cylindrical portion (20) to unseal said opening (1a) with relative movement of said sealing portion (2b) and said container main body (1A) away from one another, an elastically deformable supporting portion (2f) adapted to support said locking portion (3) so as to cause said locking portion (3) to displace with relative movement between said locking portion (3) and the cylindrical portion (20) in a direction of overlapping therebetween, and a releasing portion (4) adapted to receive from the image forming apparatus (100) a releasing force for releasing engagement between said locking portion (3) and the cylindrical portion (20) by displacement of said locking portion (3b) with elastic deformation of said supporting portion (2f).

Description

Container for toner supply and delivery system toner supply

The present invention relates to a container for toner supply and a toner supply system.

In a conventional apparatus for the formation of electrophotographic images, such as a copy machine or a electrophotographic printer, a particle toner is used Fine as a developer. When the set toner runs out main device for imaging electrophotographic, toner is supplied to the main assembly of the imaging apparatus using a container for accommodate toner (container for toner supply).

In this document, the apparatus for training of electrophotographic images is a device that forms images on a recording material through a process of the type of electrophotographic imaging. The device for electrophotographic imaging comprises a machine electrophotographic copier, an electrophotographic printer (laser printer, LED printer, for example), a machine facsimile, a word processor or similar.

Since the toner is a very fine powder, in the toner supply operation, it is known that a toner supply container inside the set main device for imaging and supplied gradually the toner through a small opening to avoid the dispersion of the toner.

Any of the containers for supply Toner described above receives a driving force from the main set of the apparatus for the formation of images to drive the container feeding element for supply of toner or the same main body for unloading the toner Regarding said means of transmission of Drive there are some methods. For example, the JP document 05-75768 U discloses that a part of a coupling on an outer surface of the bottle of toner (container for toner supply) and that the coupling engages with a drive coupling, by means of which the toner bottle

JP 10-63084 gives know that the surface of the end of the toner bottle is equipped with a projection that engages with recesses formed in a drive part of the main assembly of the apparatus for imaging, thus transmitting the force of drive

JP 10-63076 gives Meet another guy. A part for the transmission of a force of rotation of the main assembly of the apparatus for the formation of images has an inside diameter that is endowed with a series of docking slots and the toner container is provided with projections that can be engaged in the coupling grooves. The rotational drive force is transmitted through the coupling between them.

As described, various proposals are proposed. methods for drive transmission to drive the toner supply container.

However, conventional structures They carry some problems.

In the case of JP document 05-75768, when the toner bottle is inserted into The main set of the imaging apparatus is necessary to make the surface coupling part outside of the toner bottle fits properly with the part of the drive coupling of the main device assembly for the formation of images. This requires the user to have care of proper coupling. Also, since it spins the toner bottle through the coupling coupling between couplings, the toner bottle receives forces that tend to divert the bottle in a direction perpendicular to the axis. By Therefore, there is a possibility that the toner bottle will rise or deviate laterally resulting in an incorrect turn. TO In order to avoid such deviation, it is required that all outer circumference of the toner bottle is closed. This imposes difficulties in the assembly of the toner bottle and in the assembly operation Additionally, the supply system It is complex and expensive.

In the methods disclosed in the documents JP 10-63084 and JP 10-68076, when the toner bottle is introduced so that the projection (or recess) disposed on the surface of the end of the toner bottle it properly fit with the base (or projection) of the part of drive of the main assembly side (part of main assembly drive), an operation of positioning in the direction of rotation. This degrades the operative supply of the developer and even a slight Deviation may result in a lack of operability.

In order to avoid such coupling incorrect, the toner bottle is required to be equipped with outer surface of a guide rib for the purpose of determine the position of the toner bottle in the direction of turn in the introduction of it, or that the turn operation of the coupling recess of the drive part of the assembly main is controlled to stop in a turning position default whenever it stops. This also results in a Increase in complexity and cost.

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In most transmissions of coupling drive using a coupling outgoing / recess, when the phase deviation between the toner bottle and the drive part of the set main, the drive part of the assembly is required main back in opposition to an elastic force and the Docking position is set when the phase is aligned. With such structure, even if there is a phase difference when the toner bottle is inserted, the drive part of the main set goes back and when the bottle rotates with the status, phase differences are eliminated sooner or later and, by Therefore, the coupling is established. However, the structure of The drive part of the main assembly is complex. In addition, the drive part of the main assembly must can move to the back, which requires a space additional and therefore makes it difficult to reduce the size of the main set of the device.

In the conventional example it is not disclosed how to decouple the projection of the recess. Assuming the operator force the removal of the container for toner supply or that the operator pushes the small ledge with the finger, the ability to use is not good or the drive part of the device for imaging or the container for toner supply They may be damaged.

US 6,137,972 discloses a toner container comprising a coupling element. He coupling element consists mainly of flexible blades They provide an opening. For use, the container toner is inserted into a printer with a clamp rod arranged as part of the press fit of the printer in a recess formed by flexible blades. Subsequently, the stem it is pushed together with the coupling element towards the inside the toner container to remove the closure of the opening of the toner container. After use, the stem retracts until the opening of the toner container is close again and then the rod goes back further to decouple the coupling element, that is, the rod is releases from the flexible blades simply by means of a force of increased recoil

EP 1 006 415 discloses a toner container equipped with a coupling mechanism in the form of recess for the reception of a stem of a printer. When the toner container is mounted on the printer, the stem is fits into the coupling recess, so that the toner can be supplied from the toner container to the printer. For release the coupling, the rod goes back from the recess applying a recoil force on the toner container.

EP 0 853 260 A2 shows a cartridge which has a protruding end that is introduced into a recess of a printer. The connection between the cartridge and the printer is made by a pressure coupling of the protrusion of the cartridge and the corresponding recess of the printer. The pressure coupling is releases by applying a release force on the cartridge in the backward direction.

US 6,075,963 A shows a cartridge comprising a closure with a rod, the rod being housed in a corresponding recess of the printer to remove the closure of the cartridge.

The objective of the present invention is to give know an improved toner supply container that can be coupled and decoupled easily and reliably to one part of actuation of the apparatus for imaging and giving know a toner supply system consisting of the container for improved toner supply and an apparatus for toner reception

The purpose of the present invention is to solves with the container for toner supply according to the claim 1 and the toner delivery system according to the claim 14.

The characteristics and advantages of this invention will become more apparent when considering the following description of the preferred embodiments herein invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is a sectional view of a apparatus for imaging according to an embodiment of the present invention

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus for imaging shown in figure 1.

Figure 3 is a perspective view that shows the assembly of a container for the supply of toner in an apparatus for imaging.

Figure 4 is a front view of the apparatus for imaging of figure 1.

Figure 5 is a side view of the apparatus for imaging of figure 1.

Figure 6 is a top plan view of the apparatus for imaging in which a Change cover of the toner container in the open position.

Figure 7 are sectional views showing a container assembly operation for toner supply where (A) shows an initial stage of the assembly operation, (B) shows the status in the process of the assembly operation and (C) shows the status after finishing the assembly operation.

Figure 8 is a perspective view, partially sectioned of a container for supply of toner

Figure 9 is a section partially increased view of a part of the transmission of the drive in which a drive shaft is arranged in the side of the main body of the container to supply toner

Figure 10 is a perspective view, partially sectioned of a container for supply of toner

Figure 11 is a partially larger section view scale of a part for transmission of drive on which a drive shaft is arranged on one side of the closure element.

Figure 12 is a side view of an element of closure in which (A) is a front view, (B) is a view side view in the direction (X) of (A) and (C) is a side view view in the (Y) direction of (A).

Figure 13 is a sectional view of a closure element taken along a line (X-X) of (B) of Figure 12.

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a part for the transmission of the driving force and a part for receiving the driving force according to a example not covered by the invention.

Figure 15, which shows an uncovered example by the invention, it is a partially sectional view showing the coupling action of a part for the transmission of driving a toner bottle, (A) shows the status before of the introduction of the toner bottle, (B) shows the status in the introduction process, (C) shows the status after finishing the introduction operation.

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a part for receiving the driving force according to a example not covered by the invention.

Figure 17 is a sectional view of the closure element of figure 16 not covered by the invention.

Figure 18, which shows an uncovered example by the invention, it is an illustration of phase alignment when the toner bottle is introduced into the main set of apparatus in which (A) shows the state in which a rib of coupling and a coupling boss align with each other, (B) shows the state in which they are not aligned after the turn until certain point and (C) shows the state in which the rib of coupling rests against the coupling boss for allow drive transmission.

Figure 19 shows a closure element according to an example not covered by the invention, in which (A) is a view on the left side, (B) is a front view and (C) is a view of the right side.

Figure 20 is a perspective view of a part for the transmission of the driving force and a part for receiving the driving force according to another example not covered by the invention in which the operation of phase control is not necessary.

Figure 21, which shows an uncovered example by the invention, shows the part for the transmission of the actuation of figure 20 during an introduction operation of the toner bottle, in which (A) shows the status before the Introduction of the toner bottle, (B) shows the status in the process of the input operation and (C) shows the status after Finish the introduction operation.

Figure 22, which shows an uncovered example by the invention, shows the decoupling action on the part for the transmission of the toner bottle drive, in the that (A) is before decoupling, (B) is during the process of decoupling, (C) is after finishing the action of decoupling

Figure 23 is a sectional view of the closure element according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which (A) is a side view, (B) is a front view and (C) It is a sectional view.

Figure 24 is a sectional view showing the coupling of the closure element of figure 23 with the part drive.

Figure 25 is an illustration of the action of decoupling on the part for the transmission of the drive the toner bottle, in which (A) is before decoupling, (B) it is during the decoupling process and (C) it is after finishing the decoupling action.

Figure 26 shows a closure element, which shows an example not covered by the invention, in which (A) is a side view and (B) is a sectional view taken along a line (X-X).

Figure 27 shows a drive part which can be coupled with the closure element of figure 26, in the that (A) is a front view, (B) is a side view, (C) is a section view taken along a line (C-C) of (B), (D) is a sectional view taken at along a line (D-D) of (A).

Figure 28, which shows an uncovered example by the invention, shows the coupling action between the closure element of figure 26 and the actuating part of the Figure 27, in which (A) shows the state in which the toner bottle, (B) shows the status during the process of introduction and (C) shows the status after finishing the introduction.

Figure 29, which shows an uncovered example by the invention, shows the decoupling action after coupling shown in figure 28, in which (A) is before decoupling, (B) is during the decoupling process and (C) It is after finishing the decoupling action.

Figure 30 is a sectional view of a closure element according to another example not covered by the invention, in which (A) is before decoupling and (B) is during decoupling process

Figure 31 is a perspective view of a toner supply container according to another example not covered for the invention

Figure 32 shows a closure element according to a modified embodiment of embodiment 2.

Figure 33 is a perspective view that shows a drive transmission for a drum photosensitive according to another example not covered by the invention.

A closure element, a container for housing toner and an apparatus for forming images according to the preferred embodiments herein invention in combination with the attached drawings.

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Realization one

Referring to figure 1, it will be done a first description with respect to an apparatus for training of electrophotographic images which is an example of the apparatus for imaging with a container for toner supply (container for housing toner) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

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Apparatus for the formation of electrophotographic images

Figure 1 shows a copy machine electrophotographic An original (101) is placed in a set main (100) (main assembly of the device) on a plate (102) glass for original support. A bright image corresponding to the image information of the original (101) is reproduced on a drum (104) photosensitive electrophotographic (carrier element of the image) through a series of mirrors (M) and a lens (Ln) of an optical part (103). Based on the selection made by the user on an operating part  (100a) shown in Figure 2, or based on automatic selection depending on the paper size of the original (101), a Optimum sheet (P) of the boxes (105), (106), (107), (108). He Recording material is not limited to the sheet of paper but It can be a projector sheet, for example.

A single sheet (P) supplied is fed from one of the separation devices (105A), (106A), (107A), (108A) to the alignment rollers (110) by means of a part of feed (109), and the sheet (P) is fed to the part of transfer using the alignment rollers (110) in synchronization with the rotation of the photosensitive drum (104) and the scanning time of the optical part (103). In the part of transfer, a toner image formed on the photosensitive drum (104) on the sheet (P) by means of the arrester transfer (111). The sheet (P) that now has the image of transferred toner is separated from the photosensitive drum (104) by a separation arrester (112).

The sheet (P) is fed to a blocking part (114) by means of a feeding part (113). In the part of lock (114) the toner image is fixed on the sheet (P) by heat and pressure Subsequently, the sheet (P) passes through a part (115) to invert the unloaded sheet and unload in a tray (117) for unloading sheets, using the rollers sheet download (116) in the case of a single copy mode face. In the case of a two-sided copy mode, the sheet (P) the alignment rollers (110) are fed again through of sheet feedback paths (119), (120) under the control of a fin device (118) arranged in the part (115) for the inversion of the unloaded sheets. Later, the sheet is fed similarly to the case of copy mode by one face and finally unloads in the download tray (117) of leaves.

In the case of the overlay copy mode, the sheet (P) is temporarily and partially unloaded by rollers (116) sheet unloading through the investment part (115) of the unloaded sheets. Subsequently, at the time the back edge of the blade passes through the fin device (118) while still pinched by the discharge rollers (116) of blades, the fin device (118) and the roller are controlled (116) sheet discharge rotates in the reverse direction, so which is fed back to the main assembly (100). Subsequently, the sheet is fed to the rollers (110) of alignment through the parts (119), (120) of feedback sheet and then the sheet is processed similarly to the case of single-sided copy mode. Finally, it is downloaded in the sheet unloading tray (117).

In the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, a developing device (201) (means of revealed), a cleaning device (202), the main charger (203) and so on, around the photosensitive drum (104).

An electrostatic latent image is formed by exposing the photosensitive drum (104) so uniform doubles the light image corresponding to the information of the original image (101). The latent electrostatic image it is revealed with the toner by a developing device (201). TO effects of supplying the toner (developer) to the device revealed (201), the user assembles, with the possibility of being disassembled,  a container (1) for supplying toner in the main assembly (100) of the device. The present invention is applicable to the case in that only the toner is supplied to the apparatus for formation of images from the container for toner supply and to the case in which the toner and the carrier are supplied from it. In This embodiment is about the latter case.

The developing device (201) comprises a toner hopper (201a) (housing means) and a device revealed (201b). The toner hopper (201a) is provided with a means of shaking (201c) to shake the designated toner supply from the container (1) for toner supply. Agitated toner by means of the stirring element (201c) it is supplied to the developing device (201b) by a magnetic roller (201d).  The developing device (201b) comprises a developing roller (201f) and a feeding element (201e). Toner fed from the toner hopper (201a) using the magnetic roller (201d) it is fed to the developing roller (201f) by means of the power (201e) and is supplied to the photosensitive drum (104) by the developing roller (201f).

The cleaning device (202) works for Remove the remaining toner in the photosensitive drum (104). He main charger (203) works to electrically charge the photosensitive drum (104).

When the user opens a front cover (15) for changing the container for toner supply (cover front) which is a part of an outer envelope shown in the Figure 2, a tray (50) for receiving the container is removed, which is a part of the mounting means, up to a position predetermined by a drive system not shown. He user places the container (1) for toner supply on the container tray (50). When the user removes the container (1) for toner supply of the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, the tray (15) for receiving the container and the container (1) for toner supply of the tray (50).

The front cover (15) is arranged exclusively for the assembly and disassembly (change) of the container (1) for toner supply and, therefore, opens and closes only with this object. When you have to carry out the maintenance operation for the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, the front cover (100c) is opened.

The container (1) for toner supply can be mounted directly on the main assembly (100) of the apparatus and can be removed from it.

Toner Supply Operation

Referring to Figure 7, (A), and the Figure 7, (C), in this example the operation of supply of toner from the container for toner supply (toner bottle). Figure 7, (A) - (C) shows the process of toner supply in which the toner bottle (1) of this example is introduced into the main assembly (100) of the apparatus.

As shown in the figure, the set The main device (100) is equipped with a device (400) for supplying toner, and the device (400) for supplying Toner is equipped with a drive part (20) (part for drive force transmission) to pick up and turn the toner bottle (1). The drive part (20) is supported with turning capacity by means of bearings (23) and rotates by means of a drive motor not shown arranged in the main assembly (100) of the apparatus.

The main assembly (100) of the device is also equipped with a separator (25) that constitutes a trajectory (24) toner supply that connects to a hopper (201a) and are fixed to the separator (25), inner and outer bearings (26a), (26b) to support with the possibility of turning a part of the toner bottle (1) and to close the trajectory (24) of toner supply In addition, on the path (24) it is arranged a screw element (27) for toner supply for feed the toner to the hopper (201a).

Figure 7, (A) shows the introduction of the toner bottle (1) in the main set (100) of the device. A end of the toner bottle (1) is provided with an opening (1a) for toner supply, which will be called simply "opening", formed by a cylindrical element in this example, said opening (1a) being closed by a closing element (2) at the free end of the cylinder.

Figure 7, (B) shows the state in which You have introduced more toner bottle (1), and a protrusion (3) to coupling (locking boss) arranged at the end part free of the closing element (2) is coupled with a hole of blocking (retention) with the drive part (20) arranged in the main set The coupling between the part of drive (20) and the closing element (2) is carried out of as follows. The user enters the toner bottle (1) in the main assembly and thus the drive part (20) contacts an upper surface (part of reception of the blocking force) of the projection for the coupling Further introducing the toner bottle (1), the drive part (20) pushes down the projection of coupling to move it. Subsequently, when the pushing action of the drive part (20), the part that supports the outgoing lock is recovered by its own elastic force so that the coupling is achieved.

In this way, in this example, the coupling it is of the type called "pressure adjustment".

Since the blocking surface (3b) (part of blocking) arranged in the projection (3) for coupling is blocked with a locking hole (part to be blocked) against a movement in the thrust direction (axial direction) and therefore always that the lock is maintained, the closing element (2) is retained in the locked position by the drive part (20), although a slight game is permissible.

As will be understood from Figure 7, (C), once the closure element (2) and the part have been coupled of drive (20), a sliding element (300) recedes in the direction indicated by an arrow (b) in interrelation with the closing operation of the front cover (15) to change the bottle. By this, the toner bottle (1) also recedes but the closure element is locked on the side of the assembly main device for imaging and, therefore, the closure element (2) is away from the toner bottle (1) thus opening the opening (1a) to allow delivery of toner

At this time, the drive shaft (1b) fixed to the main body (1A) of the toner bottle (1) is not completely decoupled from the closure element (2) even in the state in which the opening (1a) is closed by the element of closing and even in the state in which the opening is open, and the coupling part (hole part) of the closure element is keeps coupled with the drive shaft (1b) (part a dock) The drive shaft (1b) has a configuration with a non-circular cross section, such as a rectangular shape or triangular to allow the transmission of the force of drive Consequently, the hole (coupling part) It has a complementary configuration for an adjustment slider

When a motor not shown is driven in this state, the rotary drive force is transmitted to a receiving surface of the driving force (part of reception of the driving force) of the projection of coupling of the closing element (2) from the part of drive (20) of the main assembly (the part of drive arranged in the main assembly), and the force of drive is transmitted from the closing element (2) to the shaft drive (1b) that rotates the toner bottle (1) to Feed and unload the toner.

In this way, the closure element (2) has the function of closing the opening (1a), the function of receiving the rotary drive force from the side of the assembly main of the apparatus for imaging, as a function of transmitting the rotary drive force to side of the toner bottle (1).

The toner bottle (1) is supported with possibility of rotation by means of the roller (23) for receiving Bottles arranged on a container reception table (50) and therefore you can turn gently using a couple of reduced drive The bottle receiving roller (23) is arranged in each of the four positions that form a support with respect to the main body (1A) of the lower part. The rollers (23) for receiving bottles are supported with possibility of turning on the device (400) to supply toner of the main set (100) of the device. By turning the toner bottle (1), the toner housed in the bottle (1) of toner is gradually discharged through the opening (1a) and the screw element (27) arranged in the path (24) of supply of toner feeding toner to the hopper (201a) arranged in the main set (100), getting from this toner supply way.

Container change method for toner supply

The description will be made with respect to a Change method of the toner bottle.

With the imaging operation you consume the toner from the toner bottle (1). When it runs out substantially all the toner therein, the "absence is detected toner "by means of detection means (not shown) arranged in the main assembly (100) of the apparatus and notified the event to the user through visualization means (100b) (figure 2) such as a liquid crystal display.

In this example, the user easily changes the toner bottle (1) through the following stages.

First, the front cover is turned (15), which is in a closed state around a hinge (18), to an open position indicated by lines discontinuous in figure 6. In interrelation with the action of front cover opening (15), the main body (1A) of the bottle, which adopts the position indicated in (C) of figure 7, is moves in a direction indicated by an arrow (a) in (A) of the Figure 7, which is opposite the direction of the arrow (b), by opening and closing means for the supply part of toner that will be described later in this document. Through this, the closing element (2) that is in a position open (away from the main body (1A) of the bottle to open the opening (1a) of toner supply) is adjusted to pressure in the opening (1a) of toner supply so that the opening (1a) of toner supply (Figure 7, (B)). In this moment, the closing element still maintains the coupling with the main set of the apparatus for imaging. Subsequently, a release ring applies a force of release to a release boss, whereby the boss  release drops together with the projection of coupling, so that the coupling is released. Doing back the main body (1A) of the bottle in the direction longitudinal of the bottle, the release operation is completed between the closure element and the main assembly of the apparatus for Image formation

Then the user removes from the set main (100) of the device the empty toner bottle (1) that has been released from the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, in the direction of the arrow (b) (figure 7 (C)) that is opposite to the direction of the arrow (a) (figure 7 (A) arrow -a-).

Then the user introduces a new bottle of toner (1) in the main assembly (100) of the apparatus in the direction of the arrow (a) and then close the front cover (fifteen). In interrelation with the closing action of the cover front (15), the closing element (2) locked with the assembly main of the imaging apparatus moves away from the main body of the container through the opening means and closing the toner supply part, so that it is released closing the opening (1a) of toner supply (figure 7, (C)). The above is the process of changing the container for toner supply

Toner bottle

The toner bottle will be described by making reference to figure 8 and figure 9.

The toner bottle (1) is usually cylindrical, and one end of it is endowed, substantially in the center of an opening (1a) by means of a outgoing part. The diameter of the opening (1a) is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical part (1A) which is the main body of the bottle The opening (1a) is plugged with an element of closure (2) to close the opening (1a) and as will be understood as from the description in combination with figure 7, (A) - (C), the closure of the opening (1a) is removed and closed again automatically, by sliding the element closure (2) with respect to the toner bottle (1) in the direction longitudinal (arrow -b-) of the toner bottle (1).

In the free end part of the element of closure (2), there is a cylindrical part that has a projection of coupling (3) and a receiving part (4) of a force of release to decouple the arranged drive part (20) in the main assembly of the apparatus and said part of the part cylindrical as support for the coupling boss and the boss release is elastically deformable (in order to increase or help elastic deformation grooves are formed on the sides sides of the area in order to extend the free end of the cylindrical part, as will be described later in this document).

The coupling projection (3) is coupled with the drive part (20) and works to transmit the Turn to the toner bottle (1). The outgoing structures of coupling (3) and release force will be described in detail later in this document.

The internal structure of the toner bottle (1).

As described above, the toner bottle (1) is generally cylindrical in shape and is generally arranged horizontally in the whole main (100) of the device. Turn through the main set (100) of the device. An inner part of the toner bottle (1) it has a projection (1c) in the form of a rib that extends helically When you turn the toner bottle (1), the toner is fed in the axial direction along the helical projection (1c) and the toner is discharged through the opening (1a) formed at one end of the toner bottle (1).

The internal structure of the toner bottle (1) according to the present invention is not limiting and the configuration or the structure can be any as long as you can download the toner by turning the toner bottle (1). The body Main toner bottle is not limited to what is described previously. For example, you can have a rotation screw or similar to feed the toner and the rotation screw is driven by a received rotary drive force by means of the closure element of the apparatus for the formation of images, while the main body is fixed (no ability to rotation) to the main assembly of the apparatus for the formation of images.

The characteristic of this example is found in the structure of the drive transmission part for the connection to the main assembly (100) of the device and, for Thus, the internal structure of the toner bottle (1) can be anyone and the bottle can have a helical projection (1c) in The inner surface of the bottle.

For example, the internal structure of the bottle it can be modified as shown in figure 10. In this modified example, in the main body of the bottle is arranged a polishing element (40) generally in the form of a license plate. The surface of the polishing element (40) has, in the surface, a series of inclined projections (40a) that are inclined with respect to the axis direction of the bottle of toner (1). One end of one of the inclined projections (40a) is extends to the surroundings of the opening (1a). The toner gets finally discharge from the inclined projection (40a) through the opening (1st). By turning the toner bottle (1), the Toner is picked up by the polishing element (40) and subsequently falls sliding on the surface of the polishing element (40). Because the inclination of the inclined projection (40a), the toner advances towards the front side of the toner bottle (1). Repeating this operation, the toner, inside the toner bottle is gradually fed into the opening (1a) while stirring and It is downloaded through it.

The type of drive of this invention does not is limited to the type of rotation drive such as the type of this example or modification. It can be vibrated, balanced or otherwise move the toner bottle to supply the toner. In other words, the drive can be a turn, swing, vibration or others as long as the toner is discharged from the bottle when the toner bottle is moved by the set main (100) of the device.

In the modified example described above, the plate-shaped polishing element (40) is an element independent of the toner bottle (1) and the strength of Rotary drive is transmitted to the polishing element (40) to through the closure element (2) to rotate the bottle of toner (1) indirectly.

In this way, the present invention is applicable when the toner bottle (1) is directly operated or indirectly through a closing element (2).

In figures 8 and 9, the main body (1A) of the bottle is provided with the opening (1a) on the surface of the longitudinal end thereof and a drive shaft (1b) (part to be coupled) protrudes out of the opening (1a), being the drive shaft (1b) integrated in the main body (1A) of the bottle and being arranged in the opening (1a). The axis of drive (1b) is arranged substantially coaxially with the opening (1a) and is coupled with the possibility of sliding with a coupling hole (2a) (part of coupling) formed in the closure element (2). The hole of coupling, as shown in figure 9, is found closed at one end away from the drive shaft, so that the leakage of toner through the hole of coupling

The drive shaft (1b) works for transmit the rotary drive force from the assembly main (100) of the apparatus to the main body (1A) of the bottle a through the closing element (2), the section configuration transverse drive shaft (1b) is not circular, for example, a rectangular configuration, in the form of H, in the form of D or similar to transmit the rotary drive force. He drive shaft (1b) is fixed to the main body (1A) of the bottle by appropriate means.

Drive shaft (1b) may not be fixed to the main body (1A) of the bottle but be integrated in the closure element (2) as shown in figure 11. In this case, the coupling hole (2a) to transmit the drive force from the drive shaft (1b) is disposed on the side of the toner bottle (1) and said opening is formed in such a way that they remain coupled to each other a Once the closure of the toner bottle has been removed. In the example modified, the element that defines the coupling hole (2a) it is supported by an element (1c) disposed inside the opening (1a) but allows toner to discharge.

In this example the drive shaft (1b) It is fixed to the main body (1A) of the bottle.

Closing element

Referring to figures 12 and 13, will make the description referring to the closing element (2) (element for receiving the drive).

In figures 12 and 13, the closure element (2) comprises a closing part (2b) for closing, with capacity of removing the closure, the opening (1a) of the toner bottle (1) and a coupling part (2c) (cylindrical part) in the form of a cylinder that can be coupled with the drive part (20) of the main set of the device. The outer diameter of a part wide diameter of the closure part (2b) is greater than the inner diameter of the opening (1a) to a suitable degree. The part of closing (2b) is adjusted to pressure in the opening (1a) by which closes the opening (1a) (opening for supply of toner) using the closing element (2).

As described above, the closure element (2) has a coupling hole (2a) for transmit the drive force received from the assembly main (100) of the device to the drive shaft (1b) by the coupling with the drive shaft (1b). The hole of coupling (2a) extends continuously in the part of closure (2b) and in the coupling part (2c). The hole of coupling (2a) has a cross sectional configuration which is complementary to the drive shaft (1b) and which is slightly larger than the cross section of the axis of drive (1b). Because of this, the drive shaft (1b) is fits loosely in the coupling hole (2a). He coupling hole (2a) and drive shaft (1b) have complementary polygonal configurations. In this example they are square.

Due to the loose fit of the shaft drive (1b) in the coupling hole (2a) that has said cross sections, the main body (1A) of the bottle and the closure element (2) can slide the one respect to the other in axial direction while avoiding a rotating movement relative between them. With this structure, when the toner bottle (1) (locked) on the device (400) to toner supply, the closing element (2) can be moved with respect to the main body (1A) of the bottle, that is, it allows removal of the closure of the opening (1a) (opening for toner supply).

The coupling length between the hole of coupling (2a) and drive shaft (1b) is determined from so that they are not coupled to each other during the movement relative between the closing element (2) and the main body (1A) of the bottle for closure removal. By doing this, the axis of drive (1b) can receive the driving force at through the closure element (2), even though the element of closure (2) moves away in relation to the main body (1).

The description will be made regarding the coupling projection (3) (blocking projection) which is one of the characteristics of the present example.

The coupling part (2c) of the element of closure (2) has a coupling projection (3) receiving the driving force from the main assembly (100) of the apparatus. The coupling boss (3) protrudes in the direction radial outward from the peripheral surface of the part cylindrical of the coupling part (2c). The outgoing of coupling comprises a receiving surface (3a) of the drive (receiving part of the drive force) for receiving the rotary drive force from the main assembly of the apparatus; and a blocking surface (3b) (locking part) for a pressure adjustment type lock of the closure element (2) in a locking hole (part to be blocked) arranged in the main set of the apparatus when the element closure (2) and the toner bottle (1) move away from each other (from the closed state to the open state). In this way, by means of the receiving surface (3a) of the drive, the coupling hole (2a) and the locking surface (3b), the coupling boss (3) performs three functions different, that is, a coupling function for reception of the rotary drive force from the main assembly of the device, a transmission function to transmit the rotation to the toner bottle (1) and a blocking function ( retention) to allow relative sliding movement between the closure element (2) and the main body of the bottle toner (1) for the purpose of opening and closing the opening automatically.

When the driving force is transmitted with the locking surface (3b) locked to the part of drive (20) of the main assembly, the surface (3b) is effective to maintain a constant distance between the element of closure (2) and the toner bottle (1). This ensures the formation of the path of the toner between the toner bottle (1) and the closure element (2), so that the amount of toner Unloaded remains constant. In this way, you get a toner bottle that has excellent discharge properties of constant quantities. In addition, the closure element (2) is securely locked to the drive part (20) of the main assembly of the apparatus and therefore it is not likely that the closing element (2) is disengaged from the drive shaft during the operation of toner discharge, ensuring in addition to this toner discharge way.

According to said structure, you can achieve the automatic opening and closing operation of the element closing (2) and force transmission operation of actuation by a single closing element, so that a container for toner supply can be provided Economical and compact

The coupling boss (3) is located preferably in general with the closure element (2) from the point of view of reducing the number of constituent parts, but you can also mount a separate element for the coupling projection (3) in the closure element (2). Saying example will be described in combination with a fourth realization.

The coupling boss (3) has the function of reception of the driving force as well as the function of blockage and therefore has a certain degree of stiffness. In view of this, grooves (2e) or the like are formed at the lateral ends of the coupling boss (3), so that it is only arranged the coupling part (2c) in the projection of coupling (3), which can be elastically deformed with relative inward freedom. This is because the outgoing of coupling (3) is displaced by the main assembly (100) of the apparatus for coupling and decoupling with respect to the main assembly of the apparatus, as will be described more later in this document.

In this example the coupling boss (3) it is integrated in the closing element (2) in this example.

The free end part of the projection of coupling (3) is provided with a conical part (receiving part  of the blocking force) in order to allow a smooth introduction when the closing element (2) is inserted into the drive part (20) of the main assembly (100) of the apparatus. The conical surface (3c) receives a blocking force from the inner surface of the drive part (20), of so that the coupling projection (3) is moved (part of lock) inward to lock the lock hole when the conical surface (3c) approaches in relation to the locking hole (20h) of the drive part (20). When the locking surface is closer to the locking hole until the point where the conical part (3c) makes contact with the inner surface of the drive part (20), that is to say releases the blocking force, the part that supports the projection of coupling (locking part) recovers from its position displaced, thus completing the blocking between the element closing (locking part) and the main assembly (part a lock) of the apparatus for imaging.

After completing the blocking action, it is taught automatically relative movement between the closing element and the main body of the bottle in the direction moving away the one on the other, whereby the opening of the opening is opened for Allow toner discharge. In this example the closing element couples with the main assembly of the device so as to avoid the movement in the sliding direction and, in this state, the main body of the bottle goes back or advances to open or automatically close the opening.

Referring to figures 12 and 13, will make the description regarding the structure of a part for the reception of the force of liberation which is another of the characteristics of the present invention.

The coupling projection (3) described previously it is arranged in each of the two positions that they are diametrically opposed to each other and the two protrusions of coupling (3) are connected by a connection part which functions as a receiving part (4) of the force of release. When the receiving part (4) of the force of liberation (liberation part) receives a force from the set main of the device in the direction indicated by an arrow (b), the coupling projections (3) deform elastically such as indicated by the dashed lines in figure 13. Yes force application stops, position is recovered original. The release part (4) has a relatively thickness small to allow elastic deformation and the material in consideration of said elastic deformation.

It is preferable that the closure element (2) be manufactured by injection molding of a resin material plastic or similar, but it is possible to use another material or another manufacturing method They can be arranged by connecting of independent elements. The closing element (2) has preferably a suitable elasticity since it is adjusted to opening pressure (1a) to close it. The best material is a Low density polyethylene material and materials Preferred are polypropylene, normal chain polyamide, Nylon (trade name), high density polyethylene, polyester, ABS, HIPS (shock resistant polystyrene) or the like.

Using a deformable elastic element elastically for the parts that support the projection of coupling (3) and for the release part (4), the lock and the release between the drive part (20) and the projection of Coupling (3) can be achieved with a simple structure, using elastic deformation and recovery. The materials described above have adequate elasticities and therefore coupling and decoupling of the drive part (20) and the coupling boss (3) are easily made with a sufficient duration.

The release part (4) is in the form of a bridge that connects the coupling projections (3), so that said series of coupling projections (3) can be displaced evenly pushing a release part.

It is not inevitable to fully connect the coupling projections, but parts of release for the respective coupling projections such as It is shown in Figures 16 and 17.

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Receiving part of the driving force

Referring to figure 14, it will be done the description regarding the structure of the part of coupling (2c) arranged in the closure element (2), which is Another feature of the present invention.

In this example the closing element (2) is arranged in the coupling part (2c) in the form of a cylinder. As described above, it also works as a drive receiving element for force reception drive from the transmission part (20) of the force of drive arranged in the device (400) for supply of toner

In the cylindrical coupling part (2c) of the closure element (2), the two parts arranged with the respective coupling projections (3) are deformable elastically, so that these parts deform easily and elastically by the conical part (3c) of the projection of coupling (3) that is pushed by the part (20) of drive The release part (4) is arranged for of connecting the coupling projections (3) and the projection of coupling (3) and release part (4) form an assembly integral.

On the other hand, the locking hole (20h) of the drive part (20) arranged on the side of the assembly main (100) of the device is built to be locked on the coupling boss (3) (surface of lock) of the coupling element (2). When the element of closure (2) is introduced in the drive part (20), it get the smooth introduction by providing the drive part (20) of a conical surface (20b) defining an inside diameter gradually decreasing at the free end of the part of drive (20). The closing element (2) is introduced in a manner smooth in the drive part (20) due to the arrangement of the conical surface (20b).

The drive part (20) is provided with a coupling rib (20a) to rotate the bottle of toner (1), and the coupling rib (20a) makes contact with the receiving surface (3a) of the drive to transmit the rotational drive force to the closing element once the coupling projection is coupled with the locking hole (20h).

Referring to figure 15, it will describe in this example the coupling between the part of drive (20) and the closing element (2).

In Figure 15, (A) shows a state in which the user is adjusting a new toner bottle (1) in the address indicated by an arrow (a) for the purpose of installing it in the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, in which it has not been coupled still the toner bottle (1) with the drive part (20) in the main set of the device.

When the toner bottle (1) is introduced more, the conical part (3c) of the coupling boss (3) of the element closure (2) is brought into contact with the conical surface (20b) of the drive part (20), as shown in (B) in the Figure 15 and the coupling projection (3) is guided by the conical surface (20b) while elastically deforming towards the inside.

Introducing more toner bottle (1), the coupling projection (3) passes through the straight part (20g) contained  on the conical surface (20b), the coupling projection (3) is recovers due to the disposition of the separation part (20h) (locking hole) that does not have the coupling rib (20a), by which the coupling boss (3) is blocked to the drive part (20), as shown in (C) in the Figure 15. In this state, the coupling boss (3) remains firmly locked with respect to the drive part (20) and the position of the closure element (2) in the thrust direction (axial direction) is substantially locked with respect to the main set of the device.

Therefore, even if the toner bottle (1) goes back in the direction indicated by an arrow (b), as shown in (C) in figure 7, the closure element (2) is not shifts in the same direction, but it is firmly fixed to the drive part (20). Moreover, since the bottle of toner (1) is inserted, the closing element (2) is separated from the toner bottle (1) safely, so that the opening closure (1a) or remains open. The operation of Sliding recoil of the toner bottle (1) may be interrelated with the opening and closing operation of the front cover (15) arranged in the main assembly (100) of the apparatus.

As for the sliding operation, the toner bottle (1) can be slid while the element of fixed closure (2), or the closure element (2) can slide the toner bottle (1) being fixed or both can slide moving away from each other.

When the toner runs out in the toner bottle, the empty toner bottle is removed to replace it with a bottle of new toner. The disassembly operation is carried out by the steps described above in reverse order.

In detail, when the operator opens the cover frontal the following occurs. First, the main body of the toner bottle advances towards the closing element while the closing element is locked to the main assembly of the apparatus, whereby the closing element of the opening is closed automatically. By means of a pushing element (21) that will be described later in this document, a projection of release to release the coupling boss from the hole blocking. Subsequently, the main body of the toner bottle goes back together with the closing element that has been returned to snap into the opening, so that the element of closure is disengaged from the main body of the device. Through this,  the toner bottle is prepared to be removed from the set Main device.

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Structure that eliminates the need for alignment of phase

The description will be made with reference to the structure that eliminates the need for phase alignment when the toner bottle (1) couples with the drive part (20) of the main set.

In conventional means for drive transmission using a combination of a drive coupling of the type of projections and recesses, is it is necessary to attach a recess and a projection with phase alignment. This is not necessary according to this example. This will be described with reference to figure 18.

Figure 18 shows a positional relationship in the direction of rotation between the coupling boss (3) and the coupling rib (20a) when the element of closure (2) on the drive part (20). The rib of coupling (20) is arranged in one position and the projection of Coupling (3) is arranged in two positions (-3A-, -3B-).

Assuming the coupling rib (20a) and the coupling boss (3) are not aligned with each other when the user enters the toner bottle (1), when entering the toner bottle (1) in the default position is locked the closing element (2) with the actuating part (20) and when the toner bottle (1) goes back, the closing element (2) moves away from the toner bottle (1) to set the status to You can download the toner.

However, depending on the position in the direction of rotation of the toner bottle (1) when inserted  the toner bottle, the coupling boss (3A) is aligned with the coupling rib (20a) as shown in (A) in Figure 18. In this case, even if the toner bottle (1) is entered in the default position, the projection of coupling (3A) interferes with the coupling rib (20a) so that it is not released outwards. So the block It is incomplete. If the toner bottle (1) goes back in this state, the toner bottle (1) goes back together with the closure (2) since the blockage with the drive part (20) of the main set is incomplete. The opening (1a) cannot be open.

In order to avoid this, the number of projections coupling (3) is greater than that of coupling ribs (20a), at least in one, whereby not all ribs of coupling and the projection or coupling projections are aligned.

In case (A) of Figure 18, one of the coupling projections (3A) interferes with the rib of coupling (20a) and, therefore, is not locked to the part of drive (20) of the main assembly. However, the other coupling projection (3B) does not interfere with the rib of coupling (20a) and, therefore, is correctly locked to the drive part (20). In this way, even if one of the coupling projections (3A) is not locked correctly, the another coupling boss (3B) is locked correctly and, therefore, the toner bottle (1) moves away from the closure element (2) without any problem, so that the closure of the opening (1st). Once the opening closure (1a) has been removed,  the coupling rib (20a) that is not completely coupled stops interference sooner or later by rotation of the drive part (20) of the main assembly in the direction indicated by an arrow (c) and, therefore, is set the correct locking of the coupling boss (3A). With a additional rotation, as shown in (C) of Figure 18, the coupling rib (20a) engages with the projection of coupling (3B) so that rotation is transmitted to make turn the toner bottle (1).

Arranging the number of projections of coupling (3) which is at least one more than the number of ribs  coupling (20a), at least one of the projections of coupling engages with the locking hole without interference with the coupling rib regardless of the position of the toner bottle (1) in the direction of rotation. This way, you can fix the toner bottle (1) safely in the apparatus.

The number of coupling projections (3) can be four instead of two as in this example. In this case, the number of coupling ribs is not greater than three.

In this case, even if the number of coupling ribs and the number of the projections of coupling are the same, the distance (phase) between the rib coupling may be different from the distance (phase) between the coupling projections, whereby at least one of the coupling projections is not aligned with the rib of coupling when inserting the bottle, so that you can Get the correct lock.

When a series of ribs are arranged coupling in different positions of the circumference, is it is preferable that the coupling ribs be arranged at regular intervals in consideration of transmission property of the drive.

Figure 20 shows another example that also eliminates the need for phase alignment. In this example modified, a shallow locking groove (20e) extends throughout the inner circumference of the part (20d) of coupling of the drive part (20) of the assembly main, and a coupling hole (20d) is formed to connect with the coupling boss (3) in the locking groove (20e). The lock slot (20e) is not so deep as to fully engage with the coupling boss (3), but it is shallow enough to allow medium coupling that allows the automatic removal action of the closing.

Referring to figure 21, in this Modified example will describe the coupling operation.

In Figure 21, (A) shows a state in which the toner bottle (1) has not yet been introduced in the part of drive (20) of the main assembly and the orifice coupling (20d) of the drive part (20) of the assembly main and the closing element (3) of the coupling boss (3) are not aligned in the positions in the direction of rotation, as indicated in the cross section (X-X). With the introduction of the toner bottle (1), the state shown in (B) of Figure 21 is reached, in which the coupling boss (3) is half coupled with the groove of lock (20e). In this state, when the toner bottle recedes (1), only the toner bottle (1) goes back in the direction indicated by arrow (b) since the closing element (2) is locks the lock slot (20e), so that the element of closure (2) and the toner bottle (1) are separated securely to remove the closure of the opening (1a). When the part of drive (20) of the main assembly rotates in the direction indicated by an arrow (c), the coupling hole is aligned (20d) and the coupling boss (3) as shown in (C) of Figure 21, and the coupling boss (3) is now completely coupled with the coupling hole (20d) to allow the transmission of the rotary drive force.

In this way, according to this example, the toner bottle (1) can be properly fixed in the set main (100) of the device simply by inserting the bottle of toner (1) in the main set (100), without adjustment the position of the bottle (1) in the direction of rotation. By Therefore, the exchange operation is simple and easy.

Additionally, since the operation of opening and closing for opening the supply container of Toner runs automatically on the main set of a imaging apparatus and therefore no need The user opens or closes the opening. This eliminates the possibility of contaminating the user's hands.

Release method

Referring to figure 22, it will be done the description as to the release between the overhang of coupling (3) and drive part (20) of the assembly principal.

When the toner supply ends and the toner bottle (1) is empty, the toner bottle (1) is removed current and the new toner bottle is set.

At this time, it is necessary to release the closure element (2) of the drive part (20).

As shown in Figure 22, the interior of the main assembly of the apparatus, more particularly, the inside the drive part (20) is provided with a pushing element (21). The pushing element (21) can be move in the same direction as the axis direction, the axis of drive (1b) of the toner bottle (1).

In Figure 22, (A) shows a state in which the toner supply and the opening (1a) of the bottle is completed Toner (1) is in an open state.

When the blockage between the part of drive (20) and the closing element (2), the pushing element (21) in a direction indicated by an arrow (a) to the release part (4) at the free end of the element of closure (2), by means of which the part of release (4) in the same direction and, consequently, the coupling boss (3) integrated with the release part (4) deforms inwards. Through this, the outgoing of coupling (3) is disengaged from the drive part (20) of the main set

The pushing element (21) advances further in the direction of the arrow (a), whereby the closing element (2) adjusts to pressure in the opening (1), closing the opening (1a) of the toner bottle (1). The thrust element (21) is advanced even further in the direction of the arrow (a), whereby the toner bottle itself (1) goes back to slide the toner bottle (1) to a position to give facilities for the user who will remove it.

As for the drive structure for the pushing element (21) may be interrelated with the opening and closing operation of the front cover (15) of the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, so that when opened the front cover (15), the pushing element (21) moves in the direction of the arrow (a) to undock between the closure element (2) of the toner bottle (1) and the drive part (20), and when the front cover is closed (15) move in the direction of the arrow (b). By way of alternatively, a drive motor or the like is used to Perform decoupling operation independently. In another alternative, it is not interrelated with the cover front (15) of the main assembly (100) of the device, but it It has a manual lever that the user manipulates and is interrelated with the thrust element.

As described above, of according to the examples, the toner supply container is can block the main assembly of the apparatus for training of electrophotographic images using a type coupling press fit securely when inserting the container to toner supply When it is to be removed, it is easily released the pressure adjustment type lock by pushing the part of release. In this way, the supply operation is achieved from the toner supply container with a very operation simple. Consequently, a container can be provided for High operability toner supply.

In addition, the decoupling the drive transmission for the container for toner supply and also done simultaneously the opening and closing operation for the opening.

These advantageous effects can be arranged through a very simple action of reduced cost with a structure Compact and reliable drive transmission.

In the state of toner discharge, it is not it is necessary to have means to support the drive shaft (1b) with turning capacity on the side of the main body of the toner bottle This simplifies the structure and avoids the problem. Toner leakage, torque increase, particle generation thick and so on.

Realization 2

Referring to the figures 23-25 and 32, a second embodiment of The present invention. The same numerals of reference that in the first embodiment to the elements that have corresponding functions and the detailed description of The common structure for simplicity.

As shown in figure 23, in this embodiment, the release boss (4) (release part) it is arranged on an outer surface, not inside the cylindrical coupling part (2c) of the closure element (2) as in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the projection of coupling (3) and the release part (4) are arranged in each of the four circumferentially equidistant positions  in order to form couples. The structures of the part of drive (20) for locking coupling with the projection of coupling of the closure element are the same as in the realization 1.

Consequently, the thrust element (21) It has the shape of a cylinder that covers the outer periphery of the drive part (20) as shown in figure 24 and can slide to engage the release part (4) in instead of having a slide bar as in the first realization. The inner surface of the free end part of the pushing element (21) (cylindrical element) is conical, of such so that the inside diameter increases, that is, the thickness of the cylinder, towards the free end, whereby the conical part (21a) engages with the vertex of the release part (4) during coupling. On the side sides of the part of support (2f) grooves (2e) are formed for the projection of coupling (3) and the release part (4) to facilitate the elastic deformation towards the inside of the coupling boss (3) and the release part (4) and its recovery.

According to this embodiment, it can be fully mold the entire closure element and therefore can drastically improve the productive properties of closure elements and the costs of manufacturing.

In Figure 25, (A) shows a state in which the toner supply and the opening (1a) of the bottle of Toner (1) is still open.

When the coupling between the drive part (20) of the main assembly and the element of closure (2), the pushing element (21) advances towards the part of release (4), as shown in (B) in Figure 25, of so that the release part (4) is pushed inwards by means of the inner surface of the pushing element (21). This move the release part (4) inwards (arrow (d-) by elastic deformation of the support part (2f) and, simultaneously, the coupling projection (3) is moved towards the interior together with the release part (4). Through this, it decouple the coupling boss (3) from the part of drive (20) of the main assembly. The stages of release are carried out by the operator in interrelation with the opening operation of the change cover.

Therefore, the pushing element (21) advances in the direction of the arrow (a), so that the closing element (2) returns to the closed position of the toner bottle (1), such as shown in (C) in Figure 25. Consequently, the pushing element (21) advances further to slide one's own toner bottle (1) to a position that facilitates the user's removal of the toner bottle (1).

As described above, of in accordance with this embodiment, through the provision of the part release (4) on the outer surface of the cylindrical part (2c), the same advantageous effects as in the First embodiment, described below. According to this embodiment, when the closure element (2) is manufactured by injection molding in a resin type material, it can be remove the mold easily and, in this way, the manufacturing properties

The width of the coupling boss is larger than the width of the release boss, so that when the main body of the bottle goes back to remove the closure of the opening automatically, the coupling between the coupling projection (locking surface) and the part of drive (20). The release projection has no bliss function and, therefore, the width is reduced to minimize resin material costs in its manufacture.

A possible alternative is to have a thin part (2y), as shown in figure 32, to make that the base parts of the support part (2f) (which support the coupling boss and release boss) deform easily. With this structure, the action of decoupling while the closure element maintains a stiffness enough including the coupling boss that receives the rotary force of drive.

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Example 3

Referring to figures 26 to 29, will describe a third example of the present invention.

In the second embodiment, as shown in figure 24, the coupling boss (3) and the release part (4) (release boss) for the element closure (2) on the outer surface of the coupling part (2b). In this example, as shown in Figure 26, they are arranged the coupling projection (3) and the projection of release (4) in each of the four positions circumferentially equidistant on an inner surface of the coupling part (2b).

Corresponding to said element structure closure (2), the drive part (20) of the assembly main has a configuration shown in figure 27. The part of actuation (20) of the main assembly comprises parts cylindrical including a part (20b) with a free end, a part (20c) of small diameter, part (20d) of large diameter and a rear end (20e) that have different diameters outside It also comprises a through hole (20f) through from which the thrust element (21) penetrates. Inside diameter of the through hole (20f) is constant. The small part diameter (20c) has a minimum outside diameter and is equipped with a coupling rib (20a) extending in the direction longitudinal of the drive part (20) in each of the opposite positions diametrically.

Referring to figure 28, in this example the description will be made as to the coupling between the drive part (20) and the closing element (2).

In Figure 28, (A) shows a state in which the toner bottle (1) is in a direction indicated by a arrow (b) for a user to install a new toner bottle (1) in the main assembly of the apparatus, in which the bottle of toner (1) has not yet been locked to the drive part (20) arranged in the main assembly of the apparatus.

As shown in (B) in Figure 28, when the toner bottle (1) is introduced more, the projection of coupling (3) arranged in the closure element (2) is placed in contact with the drive part (20) of the main assembly and is guided by the conical surface (3c) formed in the part free end of the coupling boss (3) and deforms gradually and elastically.

Introducing even more, the outgoing of coupling (3) passes through the straight part (20g), as shown in (C) in Figure 28, forced deformation is released by the separating part (20h) that does not have the coupling rib (20a) and the coupling boss (3) locks firmly in the drive part (20) of the main assembly.

In the state shown in (C) in Figure 28, the coupling projection (3) firmly engages with the part of drive (20) of the main assembly so that the position of the closing element (2) in the pushing direction (direction axial) is locked relative to the main body of the bottle toner (1). Therefore, when the bottle subsequently recedes toner (1), the closure element (2) does not recede along with the toner bottle (1) but it locks firmly to the part of drive (20) of the main assembly. On the other hand, only the toner bottle (1) is destroyed, the element of closure (2) moves away from the toner bottle (1) to close or open the opening (1a). The reverse operation of the toner bottle (1) can be such that the toner bottle (1) slides in interrelation with the opening and closing operation of the roof front (15) (figure 2).

Referring to figure 29, in this For example, the release or decoupling action will be described.

When the closure element is to be decoupled (2) of the drive part (20) of the main assembly, the pushing element (21) arranged in the central part of the part of drive (20) of the main assembly slides into the direction of the arrow (a) and only by means of it decoupling the drive part (20) of the assembly principal.

By advancing the thrust element (21) in the direction of the arrow (a) in relation to the part of release (4) arranged inside the closure element (2), the part that supports the release part (21), as shown in (B) in figure 29, it deforms outwards of so that the release part moves outward and, therefore, the coupling boss (3) moves towards the Exterior. By this, the coupling boss (3) is decoupling the drive part (20) of the assembly principal.

With an additional advance of the thrust element (21) in the direction of the arrow (a), the closing element (2) is set to pressure in the opening (1a), as shown in (C) in Figure 29. In this position, the closure element (2) Remove the closure of the opening (1a) of the toner bottle (1). Further advancing the thrust element (21) in the direction of the arrow (a), the toner bottle itself (1) slides back to a position where the user can easily extract the toner bottle (1).

As for the structure for the drive of the pushing element (21), can be interrelated with the opening and closing operation of the front cover (15) of the main assembly (100) of the apparatus, such that when open the front cover (15), the pushing element (21) is move in the direction of the arrow (a) to perform the decoupling between the closure element (2) of the bottle of toner (1) and the drive part (20) and when the front cover (15), advances in the direction of the arrow (b). From alternatively, a drive motor or the like is used to perform the decoupling operation so independently. In another alternative, it does not interrelate with the front cover (15) of the main assembly (100) of the device, but there is a manual lever, which is manipulated by the user and is interrelated with the pushing element.

In this example, the unreleased part is not exposed to the outside and, therefore, in the case where the container to deliver the toner unintentionally drop the part release is not damaged and therefore the property of Shock resistance is high during transport.

In addition, by a very simple sliding of the thrust element in the forward and backward directions, you can easily decouple the drive transmission from the toner bottle and, simultaneously, you can get the Opening and closing the opening of the toner bottle.

These advantageous effects can be achieved through a very simple action of reduced cost with a structure Compact and reliable drive transmission.

Example 4

Referring to figure 30, it will describe a fourth example of the present invention.

In this example, as shown in the Figure 30, an element is manufactured independently of each other closure (2), a coupling projection (3) and a part of release (4) mounted in the opening (1a) of the toner bottle (1) and subsequently assembled.

As shown in this figure, they are mounted the two movable arms (3e) by means of hinge parts (3h) on the end surface of the closure element (2) so that they are opposite each other. Each of the movable arms (3e) is equipped at its free end part with a coupling boss (3) to effect the coupling that is similar to those of the first realization.

The coupling projections (3) are connected each other through a connection (3g) through the parts of hinge (31). The connection (3g) comprises two connected elements by hinge that work as a part of release (4).

From inside the movable arm (3e) the fixed projections (3f) project opposite each other in one part central. A spring (3j) is compressed between the fixed projections (3f). By the momentum force provided by the spring (3j), the movable arm (3e) is forced outwards, of so that the coupling projection (3) can be coupled with the drive part (20) of the main assembly, as shown in (A) in figure 30. The drive part (20) of the suitable main set in this example is, for example, the shown in figure 14.

With said structure, when the toner bottle (1) with the drive part (20) of the main assembly through the coupling boss (3), is enough to insert the toner bottle (1) into the set main device, similar to embodiment 1. More particularly, when the toner bottle (1) is introduced, the coupling projections (3) contact the part of drive (20) of the main assembly, whereby the movable arms (3e) lean inwards beating the spring force of the spring (3j) together with the projections of coupling (3). Introducing even more, the outgoing of coupling (3) is coupled with the drive part (20) of the main set in a predetermined position using the spring elastic force (3j) and, simultaneously, the arms mobiles (3e) retrieve the original position shown in (A) in the figure 30.

On the other hand, when they are going to decouple between yes, as shown in (B) in figure 30, the element of thrust (21) is pushed against the release part (4) in a direction indicated by an arrow (a), the projections of coupling (3) lean easily, so that it undock

Similar to the following examples and embodiments, the structure of this example also provides The same advantageous effects.

In this example, deformation is not used. elastic, the coupling boss (3) can be manufactured in any material that does not present elastic deformation by itself and, therefore, the choice of material is very important. By For example, various materials such as aluminum can be used, steel, magnesium, wood, a hard resin material or similar. Be it can maintain a greater coupling force and the durability.

The parts are connected with a mechanism of connection, which provides a greater margin of mobility than the elastic deformation and therefore a larger area can be used of coupling. Therefore, the coupling is very firm with a high reliability

In this example, deformation is not used. elastic of the closure element unlike in the embodiments 1-3, but a type of Connection. Therefore, the durability is better, but the structure is more complicated with the possible result of an increase in cost.

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Example 5

The present invention is not limited to previous examples and embodiments. In example 5, the structures are the same as in said example (figure 20) except for the parts to be described.

For example, as shown in the figure 31, the opening (1a) of the toner bottle (1) can be arranged on the cylindrical surface (1d) adjacent to the surface extreme longitudinal In that case, the coupling part for the coupling (2c) is not arranged in the closing element (2) and can be mounted with turning capacity on a surface end of the main body (1A) of the toner bottle. In this case, the opening (1a) is hermetically sealed by means of a shutter element (S).

The coupling part (2c) as a function to block the main body (1A) of the toner bottle at main assembly (the drive part (20) shown in the Figure 20) of the apparatus for imaging using a blocking part (the blocking surface of the projection of coupling -3-), a function of receiving a force of rotary drive on the side of the main assembly of the device for imaging through a part for reception of the driving force (a receiving surface of the coupling projection drive (3-), a function for decouple the main body (1A) of the toner bottle from the main assembly (drive part -20-) of the device for imaging through a release part (4) and a function to transmit the driving force received by the receiving part of the driving force by means of the part of receiving the driving force to the part of coupling (2c) and the toner feed element fixed on the toner bottle With this structure, if a force separates the toner bottle of the drive part (20) of the assembly main device for one reason or another, while receiving the rotation of the main set of the device, they remain coupled each other and, therefore, prevents unintentionally decoupling the transmission of the rotary drive force to the bottle of toner

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Example 6

Referring to figure 33, it will describe a sixth example.

In the previous example, the mechanism is used lock, release mechanism and mechanism transmission of the drive between an apparatus for the formation of images and a container for toner supply (element of closing). In this example, an apparatus for the formation of images and an electrophotographic photosensitive element that can be mount with separation capacity in relation to the main assembly  of the imaging apparatus, in which the drum Photosensitive is changed to a new one after its useful life. In others aspects, the structures are the same as in the realization one.

In figure 33, the coupling part (2c) arranged at one end of a photosensitive drum (104) is coupled with a drive part (20) of the main assembly of the apparatus for imaging similar to the embodiment 1, so that the rotary drive force is transmits from the drive part (20) to the element photosensitive. The structures for decoupling between them they are similar to those of embodiment 1.

As will be understood, the mechanism of Drive transmission of this invention is not limited to toner supply container or training apparatus of images, but is applicable to a structure for transmission of a rotation, balancing or backward movement around an axis of rotation.

The automatic closing operation for the Opening can be achieved as follows.

In interrelation with the opening operation of the exchange cover by the operator, the body main toner bottle advances towards the closing element maintaining the coupling between the closure element and the part actuator (20), by means of which the closing element in the opening, thus achieving the automatic closing

Therefore, the pushing element (21) slides to come into contact with the release part and the projection of coupling is disengaged from the drive part (20). Further, the pushing element (21) pushes the main body of the bottle of toner together with the closing element towards the change cover to a position where the computer can easily remove the toner bottle

In this way, the sliding movement (recoil, advance) of the main body of the bottle, used to remove the closure of the opening can be used to return to close the opening with a simple structure. Besides, the Sliding movement distance of the thrust element can be shorten with respect to the above embodiments and examples and, therefore, complexity of the apparatus on the side can be avoided of the main body.

The structure for the coupling and decoupling between the main body of the apparatus for imaging and the toner bottle or item photosensitive can be used in examples and embodiments 2, 3 and 4.

In the examples and embodiments 1-6, only by movement of the projection for releasing the main assembly of the device in one direction (axial direction, for example) of relative displacement of the closure element in relation to the main body, the projection or coupling projections move in one direction or directions substantially perpendicular to the direction (radial direction, for example) and, therefore, the structure for the decoupling is simple. Even when a series is arranged of coupling projections, all coupling projections they contact the decoupling positions by a force applied substantially in one position and therefore the structure for decoupling is simple. In the examples and embodiments 1, 4, 5 and 6, the receiving part of the force of release of the closure element is arranged substantially in the free end portion of the closure element, so that the receiving part of the release force can couple with the main set at a relatively early stage after the Beginning of the introduction of the toner bottle.

In the examples and embodiments 1-4, the drive part (20) of the assembly main apparatus for imaging is arranged with a locking hole and a coupling rib, and the closure element (2) is arranged with a projection part of coupling (3) that can be coupled with the locking hole and the coupling rib of the drive part (20), but it You can reverse the outgoing and recess ratio. In other words, the drive part (20) of the main assembly of the apparatus is arranged with the coupling boss and the part of release (release boss) and the closure element (2) is arranged with the locking hole and the rib of coupling With this structure, the same effects are achieved advantageous

As described above, of according to said examples and embodiments, the container for accommodate the toner and the main set of the device for imaging is blocked in a coupling of the type of snap adjustment and the closure element can couple automatically in the opening of the container to accommodate the toner or decouple it, in which the lock coupling is can release with a simple structure without assuming a burden to the user.

Therefore, the user can carry out the operation to supply toner in an easier way.

Said closure element, a container for accommodate toner and imaging apparatus can be Provide at low cost.

Although the invention has been described with reference to the structures disclosed in this document, not are limited to the details set forth and this request attempts cover such modifications or changes that may enter into the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (26)

1. Container (1) for toner supply that can be mounted with separation capacity in an appliance (100) for imaging comprising a mounting part adapted to be mounted with separation capacity in said container to supply toner; a drive part (20) hollow, equipped with a hole (20h) formed in a peripheral part of it, adapted to apply a rotational force and a hollow thrust part (21) adapted to apply a force of thrust, said thrust portion (21) being able to slide in the exterior of said drive part (20), said said comprising container (1): a container body (1A) that has a space interior to accommodate toner; a feeding part (1a) adapted to feed the toner housed in said container body (1A) to unload the toner outside said container body (1A), Y a coupling element (2) adapted to receive a rotational force from the drive part (20) to feed the toner by said feeding part (1st), characterized in that said coupling element (2) comprises: a coupling part (3) adapted to connect with said hole (20h) of the drive part (twenty); a support part (2f) that can be moved substantially radially inward to support said coupling part (3), said part being arranged of coupling (3) on said support part (2f), being able to recovering said support part (2f) substantially in the direction radial outward to establish the coupling of said coupling part (3) with the drive part (20) by a relative movement between the drive part (20) and said coupling element (2) in an overlapping direction among them; Y a receiving part (4) of a force of thrust, arranged in a position on said support part (2f) closer to said container body (1A) than said part of coupling (3) with respect to the overlap direction, adapted to receive, from said pushing part (21), the pushing force to displace said coupling part (3) substantially in radial direction inward to allow movement relative to decouple the drive part (20) and said coupling element (2) in a direction opposite to the overlap address. 2. Container according to claim 1, in the that the outermost part radially of said part (4) that receives the thrust force is further from an axis of rotation than said coupling element (2) than an outermost part in radial direction of said coupling part (3). 3. Container according to claim 1 or 2, in which said coupling element (2) is provided with a series of said support parts (2f), each of them supporting said coupling part (3) and said receiving part (4) of a pushing force, said support portions of differentiated form in the direction of rotation of said element of coupling (2). 4. Container according to claim 3, in the that said coupling parts (3) can be displaced by said parts (4) for receiving the pushing force, regardless of the rotational positions of these parts coupling (3) in the direction of rotation, respectively. 5. Container, according to any of the claims 1 to 4, wherein said coupling element (2)  it has a receiving part (3b) of an opening force adapted to receive an opening force from the part of drive (20), substantially in a parallel direction with a axis of rotation of said coupling element (2) to open said container (1). 6. Container according to claim 5, in the that said coupling part (3) has a projection adapted for be coupling with said hole (20h) of the part of drive (20), said projection having a surface (3a) adapted to receive the rotational force and a surface (3b) adapted to receive the opening force. 7. Container, according to any of the claims 1 to 6, wherein said feeding part (1a) can rotate integrally with said container body (1A), said coupling element (2) has a transmission part adapted to transmit the rotational force to said body container (1A). 8. Container according to claim 7, in the that said feeding part (1a) has a part to guide the toner that extends helically on a surface inside said container body (1A). 9. Container according to claim 7, in the that said feeding part (1a) has an element in the form of plate that extends substantially in a direction parallel to a axis of rotation of said container body (1A) and a series of inclined projections relative to the axis of rotation on said Plate-shaped element to guide the toner. 10. Container according to claim 9, in the that said plate-shaped element extends substantially in the entire length of said container body (1A). 11. Container, according to any of the claims 1 to 10, wherein said support part (2f) is made of a plastic material so that it can be recover elastically in the direction of the coupling. 12. Container (1), according to any of the previous claims, wherein said receiving part (4) of a pushing force is disposed integrally with said support part. 13. Container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said receiving part (4) of a pushing force and said coupling part (3) are arranged in a line parallel to the direction of
overlap 14. Toner supply system for supply toner from a container for toner supply to a toner receiving apparatus, said system comprising: said receiver apparatus comprising toner: a mounting part adapted to mount with separation capacity said container for supply of toner a hollow drive part (20) arranged with a hole (20h) formed in a peripheral part thereof, adapted to apply a rotational force; Y a hollow thrust part (21) adapted to apply a pushing force, said part of which can slide thrust (21) on the outside of said drive part (twenty), said container comprising for delivery Toner: a container body (1A) that has a space inside that may contain toner; a feeding part (1a) adapted to feed the toner of said container body (1A) to discharge the toner outside said container body (1A); Y a coupling element (2) adapted to receiving the rotational force from said drive part (20) to feed the toner by said feeding part (1st), characterized in that said coupling element (2) comprises: a coupling part (3) adapted to coupling with said hole (20h) of said drive part (twenty); a support part (2f) that can be moved substantially radially inward to support said coupling part (3), said part being arranged of coupling (3) on said support part (2f), being able to recovering said support part (2f) substantially in the direction radial outward to establish a coupling of said coupling part (3) with said drive part (20) by a relative movement between said drive part (20) and said coupling element (2) in a direction of overlap between them, and a receiving part (4) of a force of thrust, arranged in a position on said support part (2f) closer to said container body (1A) than said part of coupling (3) with respect to the overlap direction, adapted to receive from said pushing part (21), the pushing force to displace said coupling part (3) substantially in radial direction inward to allow movement relative to decouple said drive part (20) and said coupling element (2) in a direction opposite to the overlap address. 15. System according to claim 14, in the that a radially outermost part of said part (4) of reception of the thrust force is further away from an axis of rotation of said coupling element (2) than one more part radially external of said coupling part (3). 16. System according to claim 14 or 15, in which said coupling element (2) is provided with a series of said support parts (2f), each of them supporting said coupling part (3) and said receiving parts (4) of a pushing force, said support portions of differentiated form in a direction of rotation of said element coupling (2). 17. System according to claim 16, in the that said coupling parts (3) can be displaced by the parts (4) for receiving the pushing force, regardless of the rotational positions of these parts coupling (3) in the direction of rotation, respectively. 18. System, according to any of the claims 14 to 17, wherein said coupling element (2) has a part (3b) for the reception of a force of opening adapted to receive an opening force from said drive part (20), substantially in one direction parallel to an axis of rotation of said coupling element (2) to open said container. 19. System according to claim 18, in the that said coupling part (3) has a projection adapted for coupling with said hole (20h) of the drive part (20), said projection having a surface (3a) adapted to receive the rotational force and a surface (3b) adapted to receive the opening force 20. System, according to any of the claims 14 to 19, wherein said feeding part (1a)  can rotate integrally with said container body (1A), said coupling element (2) having a part of transmission adapted to transmit the rotational force to said container body (1A). 21. System according to claim 20, in the that said feeding part (1a) has a part to guide the toner that extends helically on an inner surface of said container body (1A). 22. System according to claim 20, in the that said feeding part (1a) has an element in the form of plate that extends substantially in a direction parallel to a axis of rotation of said container body (1A) and a series of inclined projections in relation to the axis of rotation on the Plate-shaped element to guide the toner. 23. System according to claim 22, in the that said plate-shaped element extends substantially in the entire length of said container body (1A). 24. System, according to any of the claims 14 to 23, wherein said support part (2f) is  made of a plastic material in order to recover elastically in the direction of the coupling. 25. System, according to any of the claims 14 to 24, wherein said part (4) for the reception of the thrust force is arranged in an integrated manner with said support part. 26. System, according to any of the claims 14 to 24, wherein said part (4) for the reception of the pushing force and said coupling part (3) are arranged in a line parallel to the direction of overlap